Toyo Cinema

Rainier Avenue S. and S. Orcas Street,

Seattle,
WA98118

The Toyo Cinema was located further south than this photo indicates… it was located in what was called Hillman City (just south of Columbia City) just north of the intersection of Rainier Ave South and South Orcas Street.

My parents frequented the theater to watch Japanese movies in the 60s. They also attended the Kokusai Theater in the (now) Chinatown/International District.

Being the youngest of 5 children, I was always in tow — and would laugh 5 seconds after everyone else, because I was the only one reading the subtitles…

Paghat,
I spent many an hour at the Toyo in the 70s.
But, I’m doing a little research today. We’re thinking of doing a little program here at NW Film Forum on Japanese cinemas in Seattle. Do you have any more info on the Toyo – particularly in regard to the owner? Thanks, NV